Belgium’s Jetairfly targets further growth with new E-Jets and a Boeing 787

In a recent results presentation, TUI Travel Plc described Jetairfly as its "lowest cost" airline, but complimentary words often come with strings attached and the Brussels-based airline was awarded with the challenging task to turn the group's loss making Moroccan low-cost subsidiary, Jet4You, around and to consolidate the struggling airline into its profitable Belgian business.

Jetairfly launched operations in Mar-2004 and has reported continuously positive financial results despite its robust growth rate, intense competition with Ryanair and the difficult operating environment of Belgium, characterised by high social security contributions and taxes on employment.

Ryanair has a large base at Brussels South Charleroi Airport and the LCC is the country's second largest operator, accounting for about 23% of system seat capacity. Jetairfly's full service rival, Brussels Airlines, has been notoriously vocal in criticising Ryanair's alleged subsidised operations in Belgium and its practice of putting Belgian-based flight and aircrew on Irish payroll to lower labour costs.